Fire Risk Reduces in Electric Vehicles: New Battery Technology Has Been Developed
The risk of fire in electric vehicles may be reduced thanks to a newly developed battery technology. Researchers have found a solution for solid-state lithium-ion batteries that can store more energy and are safer.
Lithium-ion batteries are used in many electronic devices, especially electric vehicles. The advantage of these batteries is that they offer high energy density and long life. However, these batteries also have some problems. One of these is a situation called thermal runaway. Thermal runaway causes the battery to overheat and electrolyte to deteriorate. This increases the risk of fire or explosion.
Thermal runaway usually occurs as a result of overcharging or discharging the battery, manufacturing defects or physical damage. It is also a problem that lithium ions move inside the battery by forming a direct bridge between the anode and cathode. In this case, thin metallic structures called dendrites are formed. Dendrites can cause short circuits and explosions.
How Do Solid State Lithium-Ion Batteries Work?
Researchers from the University of Maryland have developed a new technique for lithium-ion batteries. This technique could enable the production of solid-state lithium-ion batteries by preventing dendrite growth. Solid-state lithium-ion batteries operate using solid electrolyte instead of liquid electrolyte. In this way, it can provide higher energy and security.
The researchers' approach consists of adding an intermediate layer between the cathode and anode. This intermediate layer is designed as a solid electrolyte layer. It prevents dendrite formation by stabilizing the interfaces between cathode and anode.
What Are Solid State Lithium-Ion Batteries? ZamWhen will it be released?
There are still some obstacles to commercializing solid-state lithium-ion batteries. For example, to increase the energy density of the battery, the thickness of the solid electrolyte layer needs to be reduced. Additionally, the cost of the battery should also be reduced.
Advanced battery manufacturer Solid Power aims to bring the new technology to the market by 2026. The company will collaborate with the University of Maryland to test the new technology.
This new technology, which will reduce the risk of fire in electric vehicles, will benefit both drivers and the environment. It can be seen as an important step for electric vehicles to become more widespread.